Tamil Nadu Politics: Udhayanidhi Stalin Revives Controversy Over Sanatan Dharma
Renewed Debate on Sanatan Dharma in Tamil Nadu
The political landscape in Tamil Nadu is once again buzzing with discussions surrounding 'Sanatan Dharma.' During the assembly session on Tuesday, Udhayanidhi Stalin, a prominent leader from the opposition party DMK, reiterated his 'anti-Sanatan' stance. He made it clear in the assembly that systems fostering discrimination in society must be dismantled.
Udhayanidhi Stalin's Address in the Assembly
In his address to the Tamil Nadu assembly, Udhayanidhi Stalin raised the 'anti-Sanatan' issue once more, emphasizing the need for its eradication. He stated, "Sanatan, which has divided people, should be abolished."
He further remarked, "Yesterday, the Chief Minister received greetings from our leader and several others. This political decorum should also be maintained in this House. Even though we sit in different rows as the ruling and opposition parties, we must collaborate for the development of Tamil Nadu."
Stalin expressed concerns regarding the playing of the state song of Tamil Nadu after 'Vande Mataram,' contrasting it with the recent swearing-in ceremony of the West Bengal Chief Minister, where 'Vande Mataram' was not played. He insisted that the state song of Tamil Nadu should never be sidelined.
He also mentioned that he and the Chief Minister studied at the same college and expressed a desire to share their experiences and knowledge, urging the Chief Minister to consider their suggestions.
Political Etiquette vs. Ideological Differences
Stalin's address highlights that Tamil Nadu's politics will continue to revolve around ideological and linguistic pride in the coming days. While he proposed cooperation and 'political civility' to the Chief Minister, he maintained a firm stance on issues like 'Sanatan' and 'Tamil identity.'
Origin of the Controversy (September 2023)
The controversy began on September 2, 2023, when Udhayanidhi Stalin delivered a contentious speech at the 'Sanatan Abolition Conference' held in Chennai.
In his statement, he compared Sanatan Dharma to diseases like 'dengue, malaria, and corona,' asserting that such entities should not only be opposed but completely eradicated.
Political Fallout
Following his remarks, significant political uproar ensued across the country, leading to FIRs being filed against him in several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Jammu & Kashmir.
Recent Comments from the Madras High Court (May 2026)
The Madurai bench of the Madras High Court has adopted a stringent stance during the hearings related to this matter. Key points from the court's observations include:
Confirmation of Hate Speech: The court explicitly stated that Udhayanidhi's remarks fall under the category of 'hate speech,' noting that such comments against a particular religion disrupt social harmony.
Ideological Attack: The High Court sharply criticized the DMK's ideology for over a century, highlighting a 'clear attack on Hinduism.' The court expressed concern that ministers in constitutional positions are promoting this ideology.
Lack of Accountability: The bench lamented that influential individuals delivering hate speeches often escape legal consequences, sending a wrong message to society.
Legal Challenges and Political Context
Several 'Quo Warranto' petitions have been filed against Udhayanidhi, questioning the authority of someone advocating for the abolition of Sanatan Dharma to hold a constitutional position.
The Supreme Court also reprimanded him, stating, "You are not an ordinary citizen but a minister; you should be aware of the consequences of your statements."
Political Context: The DMK's political ideology is historically rooted in Periyar's 'Self-Respect Movement,' which has opposed Brahminism and Sanatan traditions. Udhayanidhi's repeated emphasis on this issue is seen as an attempt to strengthen his staunch Dravidian voter base, but the recent comments from the High Court have escalated it into a serious legal matter.
Implications for Udhayanidhi Stalin
The Madras High Court's remarks represent a significant legal setback for Udhayanidhi Stalin. This could not only restrict his future political speeches but also impact his standing in Tamil Nadu's political arena.